Rapid Strep Test - Quick Diagnostic Solution

Rapid strep tests are diagnostic tests used to detect the presence of group A Streptococcus bacteria in the throat. These tests provide quick results, usually within minutes, helping healthcare providers diagnose strep throat and determine appropriate treatment.
Category
Diagnostic test
Where to get
Available at healthcare clinics, laboratories, and medical facilities
Applicable for
Strep Throat Diagnosis
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Rapid Strep Test FAQ


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What is a rapid strep test?

The rapid strep test ( RST) is a rapid antigen detection test (RADT) that is widely used in clinics to assist in the diagnosis of bacterial pharyngitis caused by group A streptococci (GAS), sometimes termed strep throat. There are currently several types of rapid strep test in use, each employing a distinct technology.

Can a rapid strep test detect a bacterial infection?

A rapid strep test can only detect the presence of Group A strep, the one most likely to cause serious throat infections; it does not detect other kinds of strep or other bacteria. How do I prepare for the test? No preparation is necessary. What happens when the test is performed?

How reliable is a rapid strep test?

The rapid strep screen is fairly reliable, but antibiotics and antiseptic mouthwash can affect the test results. Tell your doctor if you’re taking antibiotics. The rapid screen strep kit takes about 10 minutes to process. If the test is positive, you have group A Streptococcus in your throat and you probably have an infection.

Rapid Strep Test References

If you want to know more about Rapid Strep Test, consider exploring links below:

What Is Rapid Strep Test

  1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rapid_strep_test
  2. https://www.healthline.com/health/streptococcal-screen
  3. https://www.medicinenet.com/rapid_strep_test/article.htm
  4. https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/strep-a-test/
  5. https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/rapid-strep-test-a-to-z
  6. https://www.cdc.gov/groupastrep/diseases-public/strep-throat.html
  7. https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/test-rapid-strep.html
  8. https://familydoctor.org/rapid-strep-test/
  9. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=167&contentid=rapid_strep_screen
  10. https://www.austrahealth.com.au/strep-a-test.html

Rapid Strep Test Information

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532707/
  2. https://www.telethonkids.org.au/news--events/news-and-events-nav/2020/september/strep-a-tests-dramatically-cut-wait-time/
  3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/strep-throat/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350344

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